The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections, a pivotal event for cricket governance in the state, have been thrust into the spotlight after a dramatic and unexpected postponement. Originally scheduled for November 30, 2025, the elections will now take place on December 30, 2025, following a legal dispute and a flurry of public statements from key figures within the cricketing community. The move has left candidates, cricket enthusiasts, and officials in a state of shock and frustration, as the season is already underway and pressing cricketing matters hang in the balance.
The heart of the controversy lies in a legal tussle involving A V Shashidara, a KSCA member and candidate for the post of joint secretary from the Venkatesh Prasad-led group. The dispute centers on the so-called nine-year term rule, which has raised doubts among members regarding eligibility and the election process. The electoral officer for KSCA, in a formal notice, stated, "Elections cannot be conducted at this stage without removing the doubts among members and resolving the issues in question. Hence, I’m constrained to defer the election process until Dec 30, 2025."
For many, the abrupt decision was nothing short of stunning. Former India medium-pacer Venkatesh Prasad, who is contesting for the post of president, voiced his deep disappointment and concern. Speaking to the media, Prasad declared, "We were stunned to learn that the elections have been deferred to 30 December. The primary focus here should be cricket, not politics. We are not participating for political reasons. Our sole objective is to revive top-level cricket at Chinnaswamy Stadium, to bring back international matches and IPL fixtures. That is our mission. We also hear that the Bengaluru franchise might play some matches outside Bengaluru. Why should that happen?"
Prasad’s remarks highlight the urgency felt by many within the cricketing fraternity. He continued, "To make this possible, these elections must take place. That is the natural course of action. KSCA is at a pivotal juncture and needs change. Cricket is suffering right now, and the season is already underway. It is vital for elections to proceed so that a fresh committee can implement its vision. We have no issues with the Election Commission and fully respect their decisions. However, this postponement has come as a complete surprise."
The slate of candidates for the upcoming election is notable for its depth of cricketing experience. Alongside Prasad, former India and Karnataka cricketer Sujith Somasundar is running for vice president, Vinay Mruthyunjaya for secretary, AV Shashidhar for joint secretary, and BN Madhukar for treasurer. Each has expressed a commitment to restoring the prominence of Karnataka cricket both domestically and on the international stage.
On the other side of the electoral contest is Team Brijesh, led by KN Shanth Kumar, who is running for president as well. In a press release, Shanth Kumar’s group stated, "We are very keen to have the elections conducted in accordance with the directions of the division bench of the high court, and according to the schedule already announced." Their statement echoes the widespread desire for a resolution that respects both the legal process and the need for timely governance.
Amid the mounting tension, former KSCA treasurer Vinay Mruthyunjaya, now a candidate for secretary, did not mince words regarding the cause of the delay. "The responsibility to conduct elections rests with the managing committee. It is directly accountable for this delay," he stated. Mruthyunjaya elaborated further, "The responsibility to conduct elections rests squarely with the Managing Committee. They are directly accountable for this delay. The Electoral Officer sent two letters to the Managing Committee on the 14th and 15th, but received no reply until today—only this morning did he get a response. There has been a total lack of cooperation from the Managing Committee."
He went on to express frustration with the current state of governance within the KSCA: "I place responsibility entirely on the Managing Committee. The confusion has been orchestrated, leading to this outcome. We urge all KSCA members to take this issue seriously and demand an end to this undemocratic approach to governance." His words have resonated with many members who are eager to see a transparent and effective electoral process.
The KSCA, for its part, has attempted to address the mounting criticism. In a statement issued by its CEO, the association revealed, "We have written to the electoral officer to recall his letter and are hopeful election will be conducted according to calendar already announced." This move suggests that the governing body is seeking to restore confidence and possibly expedite the resolution of legal uncertainties that have led to the delay.
The legal dispute at the center of the postponement is not unprecedented in Indian cricket administration, where governance reforms and eligibility criteria have often sparked debate and litigation. The nine-year term rule, in particular, has been a source of contention in cricket associations across the country, following the recommendations of the Lodha Committee and subsequent Supreme Court interventions. The KSCA’s current predicament is a reflection of these broader challenges, where legal, administrative, and sporting priorities intersect—sometimes with disruptive consequences.
For players, coaches, and fans, the stakes are high. The Chinnaswamy Stadium, one of India’s premier cricket venues, has seen a decline in international fixtures and IPL matches in recent years. Prasad’s campaign has made the restoration of such events a central plank, arguing that strong, focused leadership is essential for Karnataka to reclaim its place on the cricketing map. The uncertainty surrounding the elections, however, threatens to prolong the period of drift and indecision.
Meanwhile, rumors abound regarding the future of the Bengaluru franchise, with suggestions that some matches might be shifted outside the city if administrative stability is not restored quickly. Such a development would be a blow to local fans and could have financial repercussions for the association and the city’s sporting economy.
As the new election date of December 30 approaches, all eyes will be on the KSCA and its leadership. Will the legal hurdles be cleared in time? Can the association deliver on its promise of a fair and transparent election? And most importantly, will cricket, rather than politics, return to the forefront of the KSCA’s agenda?
For now, the future of Karnataka cricket hangs in the balance. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the association can resolve its internal disputes and chart a new path forward. One thing is clear: the passion for cricket in Karnataka remains undimmed, and the community is watching closely, hoping for a swift and positive resolution to this ongoing drama.
